Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 455: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost on a yearly basis for transport hire of any kind for his transport and that of his staff for each year since 1997 to date in 2007; the reason for such hire; if tenders were sought; the locations brought from and to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34092/07]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Having regard to the component parts of the Deputy's question I assume that the information sought relates to the hire of private modes of transport and does not include the cost of taxis or scheduled air travel. In the time available, my officials have identified the cost of private car hire charged to my Office from 2001 to date. Details are not readily available prior to 2001. The costs so identified are set out in the table.

These costs relate to the use of cars on official trips abroad. Cars are typically used in these circumstances to transport Ministers and accompanying officials to and from airports, hotels and official engagements. The hire of cars for official visits abroad is organised by the Department of Foreign Affairs. Therefore, I am not aware of the precise arrangements relating to car hire, including tendering procedures, which may have applied. My officials are continuing to review whether any other modes of private transport were hired for my office. I will write to the Deputy shortly, outlining the results of this review.